The historic return of the first group of Burkinabè pilgrims from the 2026 Hajj was marked by an emotional touchdown at Ouagadougou International Airport on Tuesday, June 2. A total of 342 faithful disembarked, greeted by jubilant families and dignitaries, signaling the start of the repatriation phase after weeks of spiritual fulfillment in Islam’s holiest sites.
Dressed in their finest traditional attire, the returning pilgrims radiated joy, their faces lighting up at the sight of their homeland. Among them was Hadja Karidja Karambiri/Koné, whose relief and gratitude were palpable upon stepping off the plane.
« The experience in Mecca was beyond anything I imagined. As a first-time pilgrim, I am overwhelmed with happiness. Everything went smoothly… We prayed fervently for the restoration of peace and social harmony across Burkina Faso, » she shared with visible emotion.
The Secretary-General of the Ministry of Territorial Administration and Mobility, Saïdou Sankara, conveyed the government’s full satisfaction with the pilgrimage’s smooth execution. While deferring a formal assessment, he assured the public that no major incidents had marred this year’s Hajj for Burkinabè participants.
« This is a moment of profound joy and gratitude as we welcome our brothers and sisters home safely after fulfilling their religious duties. On behalf of the Minister of State, I extend heartfelt congratulations to each pilgrim. May this spiritual journey strengthen their faith, and may the prayers offered in Mecca be answered—for their families, themselves, and our nation, » he stated.
The Federation of Islamic Associations of Burkina (FAIB), represented by El Hadj Oumarou Zoungrana, praised the meticulous organization of this year’s Hajj. He extended special commendations to the steering committee for their flawless coordination.
With the first flight safely landed, the aerial repatriation process will continue uninterrupted, ensuring all Burkinabè pilgrims return home under the watchful eye of authorities and organizers.
